Description

Chicken Noodle Casserole with Broccoli and Cheddar (plant-based) is a comforting, creamy, and satisfying dish combining tender chicken, al dente noodles, fresh broccoli florets, and melty plant-based cheddar (plant-based) in a warm casserole. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights, it is easy to prepare and packed with fresh flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped into bite-sized pieces
8 oz egg noodles
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup shredded plant-based cheddar (plant-based)
4 slices smoked turkey bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled

Sauce Ingredients

1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups plant-based milk
2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
1 tsp natural gelling agent
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Additional

1 tbsp plant-based oil for sautéing

Instructions

Prep the Ingredients: Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside. Steam broccoli just until bright green and tender-crisp. Chop cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Fry smoked turkey bacon until crispy and crumble into small bits.
Make the Creamy Cheddar Sauce: In a large saucepan, sauté finely chopped onion and minced garlic in plant-based oil until fragrant and translucent. Stir in plant-based milk and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), then add shredded plant-based cheddar (plant-based). Gradually add the natural gelling agent while stirring constantly to thicken the sauce without lumps. Finish with a splash of apple cider vinegar (natural), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Bake: In a large bowl, mix cooked noodles, steamed broccoli, chopped chicken, crispy smoked turkey bacon bits, and creamy cheddar sauce gently to coat evenly. Pour mixture into a greased casserole dish and smooth the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on the edges.
Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld and the dish to set. Serve warm garnished with fresh parsley or chives and extra crispy smoked turkey bacon if desired.

Notes

Use freshly shredded plant-based cheddar (plant-based) for smoother melting.
Do not overcook broccoli; keep it tender-crisp to maintain texture and color.
Whisk sauce constantly when adding natural gelling agent to prevent lumps.
Cook noodles al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.
Add crispy smoked turkey bacon just before baking to retain crunchiness.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 450 mg
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 25 g
Cholesterol: 40 mg

Keywords: chicken noodle casserole, broccoli casserole, cheddar casserole, plant-based cheddar, family dinner, comforting casserole, easy casserole, creamy casserole